Market Intelligence

Trust accounts hold significant funds on behalf of clients across legal, real estate, and strata management sectors, yet weak controls and high transaction volumes create...

However, where possession remains disputed, lenders commonly seek court orders for possession before exercising a power of sale.

An Australian company's AUD 168,000 fine for failing to lodge audited financial reports reveals a widespread challenge: businesses often cross into mandatory audit territory through organic growth without realizing it. As revenue, assets, or headcount expand, companies can unintentionally trigger obligations under the Corporations Act, with consequences extending far beyond regulatory penalties to impact financing, transactions, and investor confidence.

An Australian accounting business wanted to generate more opportunities and smooth out its monthly revenue. Here is their analysis and the actions they’ll take, which could be of value to many firms.

Gathering information from Clients is a critical stage of the workflow process and, when done well, can have a very positive impact on efficiency.

Between August 2025 and August 2026, ASIC issued 27 infringement notices totalling $5,213,400 and secured three court-imposed fines totalling $1,170,000 for financial reporting breaches under the Corporations Act 2001. The enforcement campaign targeted late lodgement and non-lodgement of annual financial reports, with major retailers and corporate groups among those penalised. ASIC's surveillance engaged 217 companies, finding 70% non-compliant, and has signalled continued enforcement action with multiple i